Liberals expressed their dismay on the Bluesky social media platform following former President Donald Trump’s recent announcement regarding the Kennedy Center, where he claimed to have made sweeping changes to the Board of Trustees and named himself as chairman. This unexpected move has sparked a wave of reactions, with many users finding the situation absurd and likening it to satire.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump declared his intention to revitalize the Kennedy Center, stating that he had terminated several board members who did not align with his vision for a "Golden Age in Arts and Culture." He emphasized his goal to ensure that the center reflects the "brightest STARS" from across the nation, while also vowing to end performances he deemed inappropriate, such as drag shows aimed at youth.
The announcement has led to a flurry of mockery online, with users speculating about the identities of future Kennedy Center Honorees. Some suggested that the next class could include controversial figures like actor Scott Baio, musician Kid Rock, and social media personality Jake Paul. One user quipped that the honors might feature a lineup that includes James Woods and Mel Gibson, highlighting the perceived shift in the center’s cultural direction under Trump’s leadership.
Additional comments on Bluesky reflected a broader concern among users regarding the implications of Trump’s self-appointment. Some users interpreted his actions as a sign that he is no longer engaged in presidential duties, while others expressed intentions to boycott the Kennedy Center until Trump is removed from its leadership. Calls for performing unions in Washington, D.C., to strike were also made, suggesting a significant backlash against the former president’s new role.
The Kennedy Center, known for its prestigious honors and cultural events, has an Honorary Board of Trustees that includes notable figures such as First Lady Melania Trump and former First Ladies Jill Biden and Michelle Obama. Current board members also include prominent individuals like former White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.
Trump’s announcement and the subsequent reactions underscore a significant cultural and political divide in the country, with the Kennedy Center now at the center of a contentious debate over arts, culture, and leadership. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how this will impact the institution’s future and the broader cultural landscape.